Polysaccharide isolated from Passiflora edulis: Characterization and antitumor properties

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products

Background:

• Passiflora edulis is a plant with a history of traditional medicinal uses.
• Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates with diverse biological activities.
• Cancer remains a major global health challenge, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize a hot water-extracted polysaccharide fraction (PFCM) from Passiflora edulis.
• To evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of PFCM against Sarcoma 180.
• To assess the toxicological profile of PFCM.

Main Methods:

• Chemical characterization using microanalysis, IR, NMR, and size-exclusion chromatography.
• In vivo anti-tumor activity assessment in Sarcoma 180 tumor models.
• Toxicological evaluation including biochemical parameters, organ analysis, and spleen weight measurement.

Main Results:

• PFCM is primarily composed of (1→4) linked galacturonic acid with various neutral sugars.
• PFCM exhibited significant dose-dependent inhibition of Sarcoma 180 tumor growth (40.59%-48.73%).
• PFCM treatment enhanced immune cell types without causing significant toxicity to kidneys or liver, though spleen weight increased.

Conclusions:

• Passiflora edulis polysaccharide fraction (PFCM) possesses notable anti-cancer properties.
• PFCM demonstrates a favorable safety profile, with potential immunomodulatory effects.
• Further research into PFCM as a natural anti-tumor agent is warranted.